PINT OF SCIENCE FESTIVAL
18-20 MAY 2026
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Neurodiversity and Well-being: Rethinking Measures, Embracing Differences
Join us for an enlightening evening at Pint of Science in Moeskop Cafe, where we delve into the interconnected realms of neurodiversity and well-being, challenging traditional perceptions and celebrating the rich tapestry of the human mind. This unique event brings together two ground-breaking talks that invite us to reconsider how we understand and measure happiness, and how embracing neurodiversity can lead us towards a more inclusive future.
NeuroArt: Amplifying Neurodivergent Voices in Neuroscience
Bethan Burnside
Science Communicator
VIB-KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research
Bethan founded NEUROART Exhibition, a project pairing neurodivergent artists with researchers to amplify neurodivergent voices in neuroscience. Stemming from Bethan’s own experience as a PhD student navigating a surprise adult ADHD diagnosis, the project highlighted disparities in how neurodevelopmental "disorders" are studied versus the neurodivergent community's perspective. Bethan will share the ups and downs of starting an art-science initiative from scratch, and dream up a more neuroinclusive future at Pint of Science.
More than just Money: Measuring Well-Being in Different Dimensions
Lukas Leitner
PhD Candidate
University of Antwerp - Department of Sociology
Imagine you were a politician who cares about the well-being of your citizens. Utopian idea, I know. Now, the first step to improving your citizens well-being is to measure it. But how can we do that? What constitutes well-being?
Currently, most measures of well-being and inequality are income-based. That means health, housing, social relations, safety, Wi-Fi access, etc. are completely ignored. I will present a well-being measure which captures multiple dimensions, taking into account what makes people happy. Sounds too good to be true? Well, as always in science, it's a bit tricky...
